March 31, 2005

Blue Angels Backseat Ride

Yesterday I got the needed medical clearance for wheels up so I can take a one-hour VIP ride in the backseat of an F/A-18 Hornet. The Hornet is one of the top strike fighter aircraft in the world right now. But wait, it gets better. The pilot is also one of the best on the planet's face. He is the #7 pilot of the Blue Angels.

Last week I received an invitation from the entire Blue Angels Flight Demonstration Team to take this ride of a lifetime. The entire Blue Angels air and ground support team voted for me because they feel I can write a powerful story that will help raise awareness about all of the wonderful things the Blue Angels, US Navy and the Marines do for us on a daily basis.

This will not be the first time I have written a story about the US Navy. Six years ago I had the splendid opportunity to land on an aircraft carrier and be shot off the catapult the following day. The story I wrote about that experience is one that is read by many people each day.

If all goes well, you should see my new story about this upcoming Blue Angels experience in a month. Wish me luck and a settled stomach!